Anything like a writer

My good friend Shelli has tagged me for a meme. The subject is "3 writing tips."

First of all, I don't consider myself anything like a writer. Just so you know. Shelli also suggested 3 photography tips, since that's what I'm into. I thought I'd try both.

Writing tips are up first:

1. Edit, edit, edit. And then edit again, and ok, once more. Whether it seems like it or not, when I write I try to get all unnecessary words out of there. If you could see the junk I'm going to cut out of this post, you'd laugh.
2. Learn how to turn a phrase and develop your style. I like unusual phrases. I like to make up words ("heavywet" comes to mind - this is what we say at my house when V has a wet diaper). I like words and phrases and situations that are uniquely Southern. This is my thing. I try to use it to my advantage. I used to be better at it before I lost my funny. Yeah, I lost my funny when I had a baby. More on that another day (See? Editing! This bit was a lot longer before I hit it with my backspace key). Anyway, what is it about words that you love? Figure it out and develop your talent for it.
3. Write what comes easy. I'll tell ya, I don't have a lot of readers, but I have had a couple of comments saying that people have enjoyed my writing. I have no explanation for this because I hate writing. I actually have an article I should have written three months ago for a website I love. I'm planning on finally finishing it this week (I think). While I feel really blessed to have this opportunity, I never should have suggested it because I'm a born procrastinator. But writing about my grandparents and my family? Love it. It's easy for me. The only thing that takes a long time is the editing, but that's only because I want it to be perfect.

I can't think of anyone I want to tag on this but if you want to join in, consider yourself tagged. I'll post the photography tips soon...

Comments

[Shelli]

Great tips. And you are a good writer.

[sheri]

See, you are a good writer. That was quite entertaining!
Do you think we lose our funny because one of the parents has to turn into the serious one? Michael is a big goof. If we both were, it would be total chaos.
Waiting very patiently for those photography tips.... :)

[Shalet]

I like your tips. I am not a writer either but I like writing. I totally agree with edit, edit, edit. I can't read something I wrote without an additional edit. And original words? Mine are too dorky - literally. Dorkissamorkiss and labradork are hardly normal conversation unless you're at my house. Weenis is also a big one here, as in, "Mommy, do I have a weenis?" But, I heard that one used on Juno. I felt so mainstream. All right - off to play scrabble. I, too, am waiting for photography tips. :o)

[marta]

Perhaps hating writing makes you better at it--you don't fall in love with your words and let that get in the way of rule number one. Sadly, loving to do something, doesn't mean a person will be good at it. I worry about this every time I look at my own work...

[kidshaus]

i'll have to say that i love your writing! i wish i was only half as good as a great writer. i guess i can be inspired if it's about something that i'm genuinely passionate about though :). you've got a nice gift though!